Ukraine’s justice minister suspended in graft probe tied to Zelensky associate
Ukrainian Justice Minister German Galushchenko has been suspended as investigators pursue an anti-corruption probe which has reportedly forced a former business associate of Vladimir Zelensky to flee the country, and which could reach the highest levels of government.
Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko announced the decision on Wednesday, following a sweeping operation by the Western-backed National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) targeting a “high-level criminal organization” that allegedly profited from contracts involving the state-owned nuclear energy company Energoatom.
Galushchenko, who previously served as energy minister before being replaced, called his suspension a “civilized” step and said he was preparing his legal defense.
Ukrainian media reported that the investigation centers on Timur Mindich, a close associate and former business partner of Vladimir Zelensky, who allegedly fled Ukraine just hours before his home was searched by NABU agents.
According to NABU, the Western funded anti-graft agency that Zelensky unsuccessfully tried to take control of, Energoatom officials and contractors were forced to pay kickbacks for state contracts.
Seven individuals have been formally charged but not named. Among the suspects are an individual dubbed “Carlson” – whom Ukrainian media has identified as Mindich – the ring’s bookkeeper, two energy officials, and intermediaries involved in managing the payments.
Mindich, described in the Ukrainian press as “Zelensky’s wallet,” was previously a key figure in the network of oligarch Igor Kolomoysky, the Ukrainian leader’s former backer who is currently facing criminal prosecution. Mindich’s corporate interests reportedly rapidly expanded during Zelensky’s tenure, from a studio he jointly owned with the Ukrainian leader, through to energy and weapons production.
Opposition lawmakers have demanded the resignation of the entire Sviridenko cabinet, warning that the scandal could jeopardize Ukraine’s access to Western financial aid.
